A PCSO from the Droitwich Safer Neighbourhood Team has brought a bakery and community project together to help residents who need support.
And PCSO Ben Mawby’s scheme also provides a way for the police to engage with some people in the town who perhaps do not usually talk to officers.
PCSO Mawby, who has been in the force for six years, focuses on Droitwich town centre. His idea came about from a conversation with Quality Crust which is now providing unsold baked products to Moving Forward project.
The project offers a variety of support to the residents of Droitwich, particularly in the Westlands area, one of which is the Community Fridge launched to help reduce food wastage and provide food support.
PCSO Mawby said: “Part of my role within the town centre is to engage with businesses and listen to any concerns they have about shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and safety.
“I can offer advice, reassurance and a direct link to the police should they need it.
“It was during a conversation whilst at the bakery I realised that bringing them and a local project together could provide support to people within our community who really need it.
“For the Safer Neighbourhood Team, bringing these two organisations together also helps us build confidence within our community and engage with people who perhaps don’t normally talk to the police.”
Hannah Fowle, from Quality Crust, said: “We are pleased to be supporting a fantastic project in Droitwich who in turn help people within our community who need support.
“It is a small gesture from us, but we hope it can make a big difference to others.”
Nikki Beeston, the project manager for Moving Forward, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Quality Crust in Droitwich.
“The daily donations we receive are a wonderful boost to our Community Cafe and Fridge and the quality of the food is exceptional.
“It’s a fantastic example of how local businesses can make a real difference in their community.
“We (Moving Forward Community Fridge and Cafe) provide free food to anyone in Droitwich.
“We are also able to make good use of the donations at our junior youth group, Westlands Youth and share the donations with DAFFY, which is another youth group aimed at older children.
“The food is enjoyed by all, and we’ve received some brilliant feedback, some also mentioning that they wouldn’t usually try some of the food on offer.
“A massive thank you to PCSO Mawby for connecting us.”
